German culture, traditions, food, and drink have deep roots in the heart of Texas. Come autumn, there are more volkfests (German folk festivals) brimming with delicious food, cold beer, carnival games, and traditional music. So, here’s our guide to the best German festivals to be found and how to navigate them.

Fredericksburg Octoberfest, Fredericksburg, TX

One of the most historic, massive German festivals in the country. Five stages of continuous music and entertainment all weekend long. Fredericksburg is a great spot to visit anytime, with ample shopping, wineries, and breweries, but if you decide to come visit in the fall then you’ve got their Octoberfest to look forward to. And Fredericksburg is the perfect place to shop for your German fest outfit! Local Bavarian outfitter Kuckuck’s Nest is a fantastic resource for traditional lederhosen and more. For continued entertainment, catch a performance of the Fredericksburg Theater Company or a variety show at the Rock Box Theater. If lagers and ales aren’t your style, explore the city on a wine tour. 

Wurstfest, New Braunfels, TX

Ten straight days of festivities and top-notch German sausage. Bratwurst, weisswurst, currywurst, knackwurst…the list goes on—each is made with a different combination of meats and spices. Try as many as you can and decide for yourself which wurst is the best. There’s enough great food to keep you happy the whole fest, but the fun doesn’t stop there. Dance the night away, enjoy the greatest German and Texas beer, enjoy carnival rides. While you're in New Braunfels, explore the historic Gruene District, float the Comal or Guadalupe River, or visit Natural Bridge Caverns for an unforgettable adventure.

Addison Oktoberfest, Addison, TX

This colossal German festival draws crowds of 70,000+ and lasts four days! And you’ll need all of them to experience everything it has to offer. Live polka bands are a staple, with exuberant brass sections and accordionists serving up a steady pulsing oompah energy all day long. And don’t miss out on the stein stacking & carrying competitions. But undoubtedly, the show-stealing event of Addison Oktoberfest is the “Dachshund Dash” dog race, featuring the beloved elongated German breed.    

Fort Worth Oktoberfest, Fort Worth, TX

Head over to Cowtown for a fantastic event packed with family fun! In addition to all the great music, food, and drink you can expect at an Oktoberfest, Fort Worth puts on a famous bier barrel rolling race, equally entertaining for competitors and spectators alike. They also have carnival rides, a 5K run, ax throwing, and their own Dachshund race! Make sure to check out Sundance Square for food and drinks after you have a great time at the fest. Or take in Fort Worth’s signature cattle drive for another taste of the old west.

MaiFest, Brenham, TX

The oldest German heritage festival in the state! Celebrated since 1874. Note the name, this famous festival is held in May, not October. Make sure to get a good spot for their colorful parade featuring elaborate floats and marching bands! Must see: the annual coronation of the Maifest Queen, a Brenham tradition steeped in pageantry and history.    

McKinney Oktoberfest, McKinney, TX

Fourteen dedicated city blocks of festival fun! Of note at the McKinney Oktoberfest, their special “Meet the Brewmaster” classes. The custom of beer brewing (and drinking) goes back well over a thousand years in German history; many events begin with an official tapping of the first keg. Grab a stein, one of those great big beer glasses, and sample each while learning the process of creating them! And don’t forget to bellow a hearty German toast before you drink, “PROST!”

More Texas Inspiration